August 29

Introduction

Romans 4:1–25: Using the example of Abraham, Paul describes how we are accepted as righteous by God. According to Paul, God’s promises are for all who have faith and God’s promise to Abraham was independent of the Law.

Today’s Key Verse: Romans 4:5

Those who depend on faith, not on deeds, and who believe in the God who declares the guilty to be innocent, it is this faith that God takes into account in order to put them right with himself.

Reflect

What does Paul say about Abraham (verses 1–3)? Reread verses 5–8. In verses 7 and 8 the apostle Paul is quoting from Psalm 32:1–2. What do these verses teach you about God? Reread verses 16 and 17. Paul describes Abraham as the “spiritual father of us all.” According to Paul, we are descendants of Abraham because of our faith in God. What does this say to you about your relationship with God? About your relationship with other believers?

Pray

Lord God, my faith is in you alone, and in faith, I trust in your promises. Because of my sin, Jesus was given over to die, but you raised him to life to put me right with you. Thank you, Lord God, for accepting me as righteous and for pardoning my sins. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Hebrews 11:1–22: The great faith of God’s people is described.